29/06/2014
Seven Great Essential Oils for Women
Essential oils have an holistic effect on the body which makes them a perfect choice for multi-faceted problems. For many women the ups and downs of life can cause a range of niggling symptoms and although there are many oils that can help, some in particular stand out for their multi-purpose action. Here is a selection of some favourites for you to try, either individually, or blended to suit your particular needs.
Bergamot: has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood and relieve effects of chronic stress. It is useful for mood swings and irritability or will give you a boost if feeling low. A cheerful oil for year-round happiness and health. This oil can be irritating to the skin and is also phototoxic, so it is best inhaled from a tissue or used in a diffuser.
Roman Chamomile is the most gentle of oils, with a mild sedative effect that calms anxious feelings and relieves tension-related aches and pains. Use in a blend for monthly cramps or add a few drops to the bath for tension, stress and sleeplessness. This oil is safe to use with children if their irritability is having a knock-on effect on you.
Clary Sage is an ancient medicinal herb which has been used for thousands of years for digestive pains and abdominal muscle cramps. This oil is also used frequently in aromatherapy to help relieve symptoms relating to the menopause. Add to a blend for massage or inhale to balance constantly changing emotions.
Lavender has so many uses it is difficult to know where to start, but definitely use a high altitude Lavender for the best therapeutic effect. It helps to improve sleep and daytime alertness, and also helpful if you suffer from skin breakouts: just dab a little on blemishes to reduce redness and inflammation.
Mandarin has a relaxing effect that is calming rather than sedating, helping to relieve over-tiredness and associated hyperactivity. Its gentle action work well for body and mind, making Mandarin a useful addition to your blend is you suffer from cramps.
Sweet Marjoram has a warming effect on tight muscles so it is ideal in a massage blend for tension-related muscle pain. It has also been shown to lower heart rate and blood pressure, making it especially suitable for emotional support during difficult times.
Peppermint is well known for its cooling effects. Great for abdominal massage, or put a couple of drops in a cooling body mist during the menopause. Peppermint also stimulates the body, helping to boost energy levels and sharpen concentration. Put a drop on each temple for headaches or use in a foot bath to banish mental fatigue – this also makes you feet feel fresh and relaxed.
Why not try one of our pre-blended oils created with women in mind?
CHANGE A blend of Sweet Fennel, Basil and Clary Sage,
BALANCE A blend composed of Lavender, Petitgrain, Rose Geranium and Clary Sage.
How to Use
For a Massage: Mix 12-15 drops of essential oil(s) in a tablespoon of a vegetable oil or fragrance-free balm and massage into the skin.
For an Aromatic Bath: Add a few drops of your chosen oil(s) to the bath and swish around. Mixing the oil with a little full-cream milk or cream will help dispersal.
Inhalation: Pour boiling water onto a few drops of essential oil and inhale deeply. Alternatively diffuse into the room.
Cooling Menopause Spritzer:
10 drops Clary Sage
10 drops Geranium
1 drop Peppermint
100ml Bulgarian Rose hydrolat
Blend together, shake and mist the neck and shoulders as just when you need it.
